New laws went into effect: here’s how they affect you.
6 New Texas Laws Every Driver Should Know (Effective September 1, 2025)
Key Takeaway:
On September 1, 2025, 835 new Texas laws went into effect. Most won’t affect your daily commute—but six do. From rental car refunds to tougher DWI penalties, here’s what Texas drivers and families need to know.
Why These Six Are Important to You
Every year, Texas lawmakers pass hundreds of new laws, and many go unnoticed by the general public. But for drivers and families, even small changes in the law can have a big impact on safety, finances, and accountability. Texas roads are already some of the busiest in the nation, and with school traffic, distracted driving, and the dangers of DWI, these new rules are designed to make the roads safer and ensure drivers are treated fairly.
This year, six new laws stand out. They affect everything from school buses to blood draws in DWI cases, and they represent the state’s continued focus on cracking down on unsafe driving and protecting passengers—especially children.
Below is a brief overview of each law, with links to separate posts that explain them in more detail.
The Six Laws Drivers Should Know
1. Damage Waiver Refunds – Senate Bill 72
Rental companies must now refund unused damage waiver fees if you return a vehicle early. This prevents drivers from paying for coverage they didn’t use.
👉 Read more about SB 72
2. Driving Safety Course Dismissal – Senate Bill 296
Drivers can still dismiss certain traffic tickets by completing a driving safety course. SB 296 updates how requests are made and clarifies that one course can cover multiple tickets from the same stop (with some limits).
👉 Read more about SB 296
3. School Bus Seat Belts – Senate Bill 546
By September 2029, all Texas school buses must have three-point seat belts for students and drivers. School districts must report progress to the Texas Education Agency, though exemptions are possible under certain circumstances.
👉 Read more about SB 546
4. DWI in School Crossing Zones – Senate Bill 826
A DWI in a school crossing zone is now considered a state jail felony rather than a misdemeanor. The law reflects the heightened danger impaired drivers pose to child pedestrians.
👉 Read more about SB 826
5. Tougher Sentencing for Undocumented Immigrants Convicted of Intoxication Manslaughter – House Bill 2017
The mandatory minimum prison sentence has increased from two years to ten years. Lawmakers say this reflects the seriousness of intoxication manslaughter cases.
👉 Read more about HB 2017
6. Blood Draw Search Warrants in DWI Cases – Senate Bill 1886
Peace officers now have expanded authority to execute warrants for blood draws in DWI cases, even across county lines. This is meant to reduce delays and strengthen evidence collection.
👉 Read more about SB 1886
A full list of all 835 laws that went into effect on September 1, 2025, can be found on Capitol.texas.gov.
What This Means for Texas Drivers
These six laws are only a fraction of the 835 new statutes that took effect on September 1, 2025. For drivers, they send a clear message: penalties for unsafe behavior are getting tougher, and laws governing passenger protection are expanding. Whether it’s requiring seat belts on buses or strengthening DWI enforcement, the changes aim to make Texas roads safer for everyone.
If you or your loved one has been injured in a crash—whether involving a school bus, a drunk driver, or a rental car—having experienced legal representation can make all the difference.
Injured in a Crash in Texas? Call Shaw.
You may be entitled to compensation for:
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Emergency Treatment
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Medical Bills
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Lost Wages
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Property Damage
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Pain and Suffering
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And More
Call Shaw today at 800-862-1260 to schedule your free case evaluation with a San Antonio personal injury attorney. No fees. No pressure. Just expert legal advice when you need it most.
We look forward to serving you.